Resources

Frequently asked questions, helpful links to qualified people and some general information.

Resources & FAQs

Do you know of any quality home inspectors?

Home inspections are a valuable tool for ensuring you know as much as possible about the home before committing to purchase it. Although an inspection is not a pass/fail system, a qualified inspector can point out items that will help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase. Visit the Service Ontario site for more information on obtaining a home inspection.

These inspectors are IRP-approved, qualified local Home Inspectors that we trust & recommend.

The Home Team | 613 968-4114

Eldon Lee | 613-398-0184

Gil Strahan | 613-394-6954

What is DOM?

BUYING OR SELLING, IT’S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND DOM AND HOW IT AFFECTS YOU.

DOM is Realtor lingo for Days on Market, or how long a property has been listed. This is how we determine the three basic types of market: Seller’s, Buyer’s or Balanced.

In the Quinte area, we have been deep inside a Seller’s market for a few years now. But currently, our average DOM for resale homes in Belleville is 30, and in Quinte West (Trenton) is 25. This shows that both areas are very close to a Balanced market.

HOWEVER, you can’t look at just that. Many homes are still selling with multiple offers, over list price. This is because we still have more Buyers than Sellers in most price ranges. As a Buyer, this means you’re likely competing with other Buyers and will need to act quickly and make sure you have all of your financing in order. For Sellers, this means that, priced properly, you will be getting maximum market value for your home.

Also, DOM can be skewed for a specific property if it has been cancelled and then re-listed, or if there was an offer that possibly fell apart (that would cause the property to BKOM – see follow-up post). This is more important data that only a Realtor will have access to.

It’s super important to talk to your Realtor (aka us!) about the average DOM for your price range, neighbourhood and home style. It can vary quite a bit and will help you determine how to move forward.

#hottip Buyers – don’t get excited about an area with long DOM, thinking you’re going to get a deal. This means people aren’t choosing to live there, FOR A REASON!!

What are the top 3 reasons to talk to a Realtor?

TALK TO ME TODAY, EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT READY TO SELL YET.

You might naturally assume that it is most important to talk to a Realtor when you’re selling or buying a home. But there are many other circumstances in which it makes sense to give me a call. Here are a few examples.

1. When you’re at the “thinking about it” stage.

If you’re just thinking about selling your home, and haven’t made a firm decision yet, you might feel uncomfortable calling a Realtor. Don’t be. In fact, I welcome your call. We can discuss what your current property will likely sell for on today’s market, and determine the type of home you qualify to buy. That way, you’ll have some clarity and be able to make a more informed decision.

2. If you’re nervous about the selling process.

If you haven’t sold a home before, you might be concerned about what’s involved in the process. You might even worry that putting your home on the market is going to be a lot of work and create a lot of turbulence for you and your family.

Fortunately, selling your home doesn’t need to be scary. In fact, a big part of my job as a Realtor is to make the process as smooth and trouble-free as possible.

If you have concerns about selling your home, give me a call.

3. If you have questions.

You likely have questions about the local real estate scene from time to time. You might have questions like: “How much did that home around the corner sell for?”; “Is now a good time to make a move, or should I wait until the market changes?”; and, “How much is my current home worth?”

When you have questions like those, you don’t need to dig for answers on your own. You can give me a call. As an expert in the local market, I can give you the answers you need.

What should I look for when reviewing my home insurance?

DOES YOUR HOME INSURANCE COVER EVERYTHING?

When you suffer damage to (or the loss of) your home or its contents, you expect your insurance company to help you out. And, most do a good job of doing just that. Still, it’s a good idea to review your policy with your insurance advisor and find out what’s covered and what isn’t. You don’t want to discover that your policy will not cover the cost of repairing flood damage in your laundry room.

Pay particular attention to coverage in the case of water damage. Some insurance policies don’t cover floods and sewer backup unless an additional rider is purchased. Also, check liability limits. Ask your advisor to recommend an appropriate level. Finally, make sure you know exactly how much your home is insured for. Are you covered for the full replacement cost? Are you comfortable with that coverage or the actual cash value?

Having the right insurance gives you peace-of-mind and is an important part of enjoying your home. Keep in mind that experts advise you to review your insurance with your advisor. Ask lots of questions. Make sure you understand your coverage fully.

By the way, if you’re looking for an insurance advisor, I’m well-connected in the local “home” industry. I may be able to give you a couple of names of good, reputable professionals. Give me a call.

Do you know a good real estate lawyer?

THERE ARE MANY QUALIFIED CHOICES FOR LEGAL ADVICE IN THE QUINTE AREA

Each purchase and sale is unique, and likewise so are law practices. Each firm has its own qualities and areas of expertise – this is definitely not a “cookie-cutter” decision. We have compiled this list of trusted Real Estate Lawyers to help you get started. This list is just the beginning. Be sure to ask for recommendations to see who best suits your needs!If you are planning to use an out-of-town lawyer, here is a link to a CMHC worksheet that will help you make sure it’s the right one.

Local Legal Professionals: